The Team
THE TEAM
Meet The Team
Our experienced veterinarians, Cherie and Dione, along with their amazing support staff are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care at Spring Vets Papamoa. With years of experience and a deep love for animals, we are committed to treating each pet with the utmost compassion and expertise. Our friendly and approachable team is here to answer your questions and ensure your pet receives the best possible care.
Dr Cherie Mcleod | Vet & Owner
Hi, I’m Cherie McLeod, a veterinarian with a passion for cats, a love for dogs, and a deep commitment to helping people provide the very best care for their pets at every stage of life. After more than 20 years in veterinary practice, I’m thrilled to be opening Spring Vets alongside my friend and colleague, Dione Bryers — a clinic where we can pursue the highest standards of care for our patients and their people.
I grew up on a dairy farm in the Waikato, surrounded by cats, dogs, horses, the occasional sheep and pig, and, of course, cows. I studied veterinary science in Palmerston North and began my career in dairy practice in Te Awamutu. A move to the UK soon led me to discover my love for small animal work. Over five years abroad, I worked in a wide range of clinics as a locum, while also travelling to some incredible places.
After returning to New Zealand, I spent a brief time in New Plymouth before moving home to Hamilton to start a family with my husband, Alex. In 2017, we relocated to the beautiful Papamoa Beach, and I’ve since deepened my knowledge in small animal medicine, completing a Master of Veterinary Medicine in 2022.
Cats hold a special place in my heart, and I have a strong interest in Feline Medicine and Cat Friendly Practice. I’m currently preparing for my membership examinations with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Surgeons in Feline Medicine, which I’ll sit in 2026. I’m also passionate about progressive, fear-free practice for both cats and dogs, and implementing environmentally friendly systems within our clinic.
Outside the clinic, I love walking or running along Papamoa Beach with my dog, exploring the Papamoa Hills, and spending time mountain biking or boating with my family.
Dr Dione Bryers | Vet & Owner
Hi, I’m Dione Bryers, and I’d like to welcome you to Spring Vets. I’ve lived and worked as a small animal vet in Tauranga for over 20 years. In that time, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many wonderful clients and their furry companions.
I grew up on a small farm in Whanganui, surrounded by a variety of animals—cats, dogs, mice, birds, calves, goats, and even a horse. From a young age, I had a deep love and respect for animals, which naturally led me into veterinary medicine.
After studying at Massey University, I began my career as a mixed animal vet in Levin in 1999. In 2002, I spent two years in the UK, combining travel with further experience in small animal practice. I returned to New Zealand in 2004 and settled in Tauranga with my husband, where I’ve continued to grow my skills through both hands-on experience and post-graduate study.
In 2025, Cherie and I founded Spring Vets Papamoa after discovering a shared philosophy around veterinary care—one that puts people, pets, and personalised service first. Our goal was to build a locally owned and operated clinic that offers great value, high-quality care, and a space where pets and their families feel welcome and respected.
I have a special interest in soft tissue surgery, eyes, and skin. I recently completed my post-graduate Certificate of Proficiency in Ophthalmology and am currently studying toward my UK Certificate in Dermatology.
Outside the clinic, I love spending time in the outdoors—walking around the Mount, exploring local bush tracks, and enjoying beach days with my family. Tauranga is a place I feel lucky to call home.
If we haven’t yet met, I’d love the chance to welcome you and your furry family to Spring Vets Papamoa. And to those I’ve had the pleasure of working with already—I look forward to seeing you again soon.
Meet Bex | Vet Nurse
I have always had a keen interest in animals and their well being, I think it’s something you are born with. Being surrounded by animals is definitely my happy place.
I began my Vet nursing career 20 plus years ago, here in Tauranga. From here I moved to Auckland and then on to Melbourne, where I spent 10 years working in emergency and critical care at the University of Melbourne, returning to the Bay in 2018 to raise our family.
My husband and I have 2 beautiful girls, who both share the love for animals. Currently we have 7 chickens, 2 cats (Finley and Shelby), and our beautiful rescue pup named Maple. They all fill our life with love, entertainment and happiness.
In my pass time you will find my family and I enjoying the great outdoors; camping, bushwalking, beaching, and skiing at the lake. My camera is never far from my side, as I’m also a keen photographer.
Meet Lilley | Vet Nurse